TOWN HALL COMPLETED

Macclesfield Town Hall has reopened to the public following an eight-month refurbishment.

The building is now available for community activities and events such as conferences, theatre productions and weddings.

The refurbishment concentrated on internal alterations and improvements to provide greater access for all. Works included new lift access, disabled toilets, guest-access wi-fi, a glazed lobby area and redecoration throughout.

Cllr Jamie Macrae, Cheshire East Cabinet member with responsibility for prosperity and economic regeneration, said: “The refurbishment of the Town Hall restores this historic building to a condition that reflects its status. It is one of the most iconic buildings in Macclesfield and the refurbished Town Hall will supplement the town`s amenities and encourage wider public and community use – ensuring the Town Hall continues to play an important role at the heart of Macclesfield town centre, alongside other new investment and regeneration.

“The council is about to develop with local interested groups, a new cultural and arts vision for Macclesfield. It is hoped that the Town Hall will provide an ideal backdrop for many events – including weddings, business conferences and theatre productions – and help link with other landmark cultural facilities, such as the Silk Museum and Heritage Centre.

“Such events will give rise to an increase in the number of people who visit the town centre, thus boosting trade for shops, restaurants and bars.

“This investment in the Town Hall is one of a number of regeneration initiatives happening across Macclesfield town centre to deliver the `Whole Town Vision` – led by the Make it Macclesfield Forum and Cheshire East Council.

“The next stage of work will focus on Market Place and Chestergate, as the traditional heart of the town, to bring visitors and shoppers to relax and enjoy the independent shopping on offer and promote al fresco dining.”